What Should Pensacola Eat? – Porchetta’s Is Local Awesomeness

By William Kristoph

I took a trip to Pensacola recently and made it a mission to find some local flavor. I’ve been to Pensacola a bunch, but I haven’t really ventured out past the typical chain restaurants. Porchetta’s is local, rated highly on Urbanspoon and the online sandwich menu made it sound absolutely awesome. First off, it’s a great sign when you look around and there are “regulars” in a restaurant, especially on a Saturday. I can definitely say that Porchetta’s fits that perfect idea of a great “dive” with great food. It’s a hole-in-the-wall and for a really tasty lunch for a fair price it’s a great option in Pensacola.

The Big Momma Porchetta Sandwich

The Big Momma Porchetta Sandwich at Porchetta’s in Pensacola, FL

I can’t begin to explain a Porchetta. It’s pork and a bunch of spices and it’s just this wonderful peppery explosion of flavor. The description on Porchetta’s main pageexplains it, but you really have to taste it to understand. The Big Momma is the perfect size for lunch. If you need something bigger, there’s always the giant Big Daddy. The bun is chewy and tasty with some mayo and mustard. And then there’s the pork. The pork is so good. Slow cooked with lots of spiced, but not a lot of heat, it was something very unique that I can’t remember having before. I ate every last bite of it and was absolutely satisfied at the end of the meal.

Cincinnati 4 Way Chili

My wife decided to try out the Cincinnati 4 Way Chili. First up, it’s a huge portion. Absolutely huge. I’ve never had chili this particular way, served over noodles with tons of meat, cheese and onions. The spice mix of this was totally different. I can’t put my finger on it, but it was surprising. I took a bite and couldn’t decided whether or not I liked it. So, I took another bit. About four bites in, it was obvious that whatever this chili had going on was addictive. If you’re a chili fan, this one is worth a shot for its uniqueness.

Hush Puppies

These were the best Hush Puppies I’ve ever had. They’re from Porchetta’s in Pensacola, Fl.

And finally, the Hush Puppies. I like good Hush Puppies, but they are so hard to find. Normally, they’re overcooked or the mix is too dry for my liking. Porchetta’s finds an amazing combination of crispy outside and moist, chewy inside combine with a spicy kick. I’m certain these were the best Hush Puppies I’ve eaten. The dipping sauce is an added cool, but spicy bonus.

The Porchetta’s experience is great. Based on a current 96% positive rating on Urbanspoon, I expected greatness. It delivered more than promised and I’ll definitely head back the next time I’m in Pensacola. Porchetta’s is reasonably priced and well worth a stop for lunch. I rated Porchetta’s “I like it” on Urbanspoon.